Asbestos Causes and Symptoms
What are they, and can you claim compensation?
We appreciate that many people once diagnosed with a serious condition such as asbestosis like to find out more about the cause and symptoms. This section sets out to provide you with some more information.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a natural substance that was widely used for a number of purposes due to its hard wearing, heat resistant nature. It has been used widely for insulation. The three main types of asbestos are:
- Crocidolite (Blue) - banned since 1985
- Amosite (Brown) banned since 1985
- Chrysotile (white) almost completely banned since 1999 with a few exceptions.
When is Asbestos Harmful?
Asbestos does not present an immediate risk unless it is disturbed and in a dust form. Asbestos fibres can be found in the air and make up environmental exposure. The environmental exposure levels do not necessarily cause asbestos related illnesses. It is the occupational exposure which is most dangerous. If asbestos materials are broken or disturbed the asbestos fibres enter the lungs and cannot be expelled adequately. They perforate and scar the lung tissue. The condition can take many years (up to 50 years) to develop after first exposure. By then the person or employer who you need to make a claim against may no longer be alive or in business. Pursuing these claims is complicated and is best dealt with by an experienced personal injury solicitor as it is often necessary to try and locate the relevant insurers at the time of exposure. 1stClaims solicitors have many years experience of handling asbestos legal claims.
Asbestos Symptoms
If you or someone you know came into contact with asbestos when it was removed, cut or mixed, it is possible that some damage may have been sustained to the lungs even though you do not necessarily feel that you have any symptoms. It is important that a chest x-ray is be obtained. If you suffer from any of the following symptoms and have been exposed to asbestos in the past, you should seek the advice of a 1stClaims solicitor. :
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent cough
- Loss of appetite
- Chest tightness
Who Can Claim For An Asbestos Condition?
Because asbestos has been so widely used, generally anyone who can establish that the company who exposed someone to asbestos dust knew or should have known of the dangers, can claim. If your spouse or partner was exposed to asbestos through their working conditions and brought home their clothing to be washed, you may be entitled to make a personal injury claim if you have suffered an Asbestos related disease as a result. It is now accepted that second hand exposure, through cleaning and handling a partner's work clothes for example, can also cause these illnesses.
If a member of your family has passed away due to an asbestos related disease, our specialist personal injury lawyers may be able to help you claim compensation on behalf of the estate.
Would You Like Some Advice On Asbestos Symptoms?
If you would like 1stClaims' expert Asbestos Claim Solicitors to provide you or a member of your family with free initial advice and an expert opininon on whether you are suffering from asbestos symptoms, please call us free on
0800 2888 693 or complete our Free Claim Enquiry form now and we will be in touch with you very soon.
Remember, it costs nothing to ask and you receive 100% of your compensation.
We are here to help you from 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday,
8.30am to 6pm on Saturday and 9am to 6pm on Sundays.
Claim Now
Start your FREE claim for compensation by using our online claim form.
Remember we charge no fees and you receive 100% of your compensation.
Our Service For You
0800 2888 693 or;
UK Wide Coverage
We have expert solicitors across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland waiting to help
you now.
News / Articles
Mesothelioma Claims - A Quiet Scandal - 24/08/2010
Industrial Disease - Repetitive Strain Injuries - 21/06/2010
Ex miners urged to claim compensation - 21/06/2010
Miners Compensation Claims Website - 12/06/2010
Miners Compensation Claim - 22/05/2010
Why Choose Us for Industrial Disease?
- We hand select only the best industrial disease and injury solicitors to help you
- You keep 100% of your compensation
- You pay nothing whether you win or lose your claim
- Your solicitor chosen by a senior personal injury solicitor with 14 years claims experience
What Our Clients Say
“They don't seem (another claims company) as efficient or helpful as 1stClaims seem to be. I have been impressed with your service and I am grateful for your help. Thanks for your patience!” - Mr Pittam
